The imperative of enhanced travel access for economic prosperity

Rural ports-of-entry are those locations where people, goods and services move in and out of a community. In today’s ever-changing landscape, it is more crucial than ever to acknowledge the pivotal role played by ports of entry in transforming rural communities. While urban centers revel in their robust infrastructure and modern transportation systems, rural regions often face challenges due to limited access to markets and resources. To cultivate a more equitable and flourishing economy, prioritizing the development of airports, harbors, public transportation, and roadways becomes paramount in propelling our economic prosperity forward.

By establishing strong connections with regional, national, and international markets, Humboldt County’s transportation hubs can act as gateways, seamlessly linking rural enterprises with unparalleled opportunities beyond our own borders. Enhanced accessibility not only facilitates the movement of goods and people but also unlocks pathways for businesses to participate in emerging supply chains.

Envision the transformative potential of a wellconnected rural community boasting an efficient and modern transportation system. Well-maintained roads, thriving airports, and bustling harbors not only sustain prosperity but also serve as nexus points for generating it. Such a thriving network of transportation breathes new life into a county facing its own budget crisis. The resulting economic boost from easing transportation and improving accessibility has already been witnessed in other communities, inspiring business clustering, where related industries and suppliers congregate to create synergies.

Sustained and supported ports of entry serve as powerful beacons, luring investors and businesses alike, as well-developed transportation networks stand as symbols of a community’s economic potential and connectivity. As rural areas become more accessible, they transform into sought-after investment destinations. Thus, thriving ports of entry become catalysts for establishing essential infrastructure that sustains our community, fosters innovation, and ignites entrepreneurship.

Moreover, investing in ports of entry remains key to unlocking the true potential of providing employment opportunities to our friends and family. Transportation projects themselves, such as major roadway improvements or airport expansions, generate a significant number of career opportunities. Though these jobs might be short-term in nature, they offer laborers the chance to enhance skills and gain valuable work experience. The positive ripple effect of skill attainment within the workforce can be manifold, leading to new growth and bolstered resilience for our economy.

Now is the opportune moment to rally behind the cause of rural development by championing the advancement of essential travel infrastructure. The transformation of rural communities, like Humboldt County, into flourishing economic powerhouses hinges on the enhancement of ports of entry. Especially as we seek to attract travelers and tourists who come here, spend their money, and leave. Thus, prioritizing the development of airports, harbors, public transportation, and roadways creates opportunities beyond our immediate horizon, fostering growth, diversification, and a thriving workforce. This entails not merely developing opportunities out of concrete, wood and steel, but from those very basic socio-economic pillars (like good transportation) upon which rural communities can rise to prosperity.

Scott Adair is the director of economic development for Humboldt County. He possesses over 18 years of experience in real estate asset management and public/private economic development. Adair and his partner relocated to Humboldt County after their home was destroyed in the 2018 Carr Fire. They have since taken up residence here and are excited to be adopted into the Humboldt family.